Efficiency Analysis of Tracking and Stationary Solar Panel Modes Against Solar Radiation

Abstract

The utilization of solar energy sources is done by using photovoltaic (solar panels). The energy emitted by the sun is fluctuating. This change in radiation energy will also affect the output of solar panels. The relationship of change is what will be measured, observed and proven in this study. The observations are made using a gauge called the solar power meter, where this device can read the amount of solar radiation energy in the W/m2 unit. While the output to be measured is the output power generated by the solar panel itself. Measurement in this study was done using two modes; i. e. stationary mode and tracking mode. The stationary mode is done by placing the solar panel face with slope and azimuth in a predetermined direction, while the tracking mode is to place the solar panel face exactly 90° to the sun. Evidently by placing the solar panels to keep the sun coming up, it can achieve efficiency up to 14.1 % compared to stationing solar panels stationed 75° to the north which can only achieve efficiency of 13.7 %.